The digital age we are living in highlights the growing importance of a stable and fast internet connection. Whether for teleworking, streaming, or online gaming, our bandwidth needs are constantly increasing. In this context, understanding the evolution of Wi-Fi standards becomes essential. Today, we look at the improvements of Wi-Fi 6 compared to its predecessor, Wi-Fi 5.
What is Wi-Fi 6 and how is it different from Wi-Fi 5?
Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, represents a significant advancement over Wi-Fi 5 (or 802.11ac). This new standard is primarily aimed at delivering better performance in environments dense with connected devices.
Wi-Fi 5 brought significant improvements in theoretical throughput and coverage, but Wi-Fi 6 takes it a step further. With technologies like Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MU-MIMO), and Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), Wi-Fi 6 can efficiently handle multiple connected devices simultaneously, reducing latency and increasing actual throughput.
Optimized management of GHz and MHz frequencies
Wi-Fi 6 optimizes the use of GHz and MHz frequencies for more efficient data transmission. The introduction of 160 MHz channels doubles the maximum bandwidth compared to the 80 MHz channels of Wi-Fi 5. In addition, 1024-QAM modulation allows more data to be transmitted per packet, increasing capacity and throughput.
Better performance in dense environments
With the exponential increase in connected devices in the average home, Wi-Fi 6 stands out for its ability to efficiently handle a large number of simultaneous connections. MU-MIMO improves network capacity by allowing multiple devices to communicate at the same time, unlike Wi-Fi 5 which could only handle one connection at a time.
The benefits of Wi-Fi 6 for your connected devices
Wi-Fi 6 not only benefits Wi-Fi routers and other networking devices but also brings tangible benefits to compatible devices.
Better device autonomy
One of the major innovations of Wi-Fi 6 is TWT (Target Wake Time). This technology allows devices to better manage their energy consumption by defining specific periods when they must wake up to send or receive data. This mode of operation reduces energy consumption, thus extending the battery life of connected devices.
An increased theoretical flow rate
In terms of theoretical throughput, Wi-Fi 6 promises speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps, compared to 3.5 Gbps for Wi-Fi 5. While these numbers are theoretical and often not achieved in real-world conditions, they demonstrate the significant increase in throughput potential offered by this new standard.
Better security
Wi-Fi 6 also introduced security improvements. With WPA3, connections are more secure, making it harder for unauthorized access to the network. This is a crucial advancement, especially with the proliferation of connected devices that require robust protection against cyber threats.
Adaptation of internet offers and routers to the new standard
Internet service providers such as Bouygues Telecom have already started offering offers adapted to Wi-Fi 6. If you are looking for a high-performance internet box, it is crucial to check whether it is compatible with Wi-Fi 6. This compatibility not only guarantees a better connection but also optimization of the optical fiber in your home.
New-generation internet boxes
Next-generation internet boxes now include Wi-Fi routers that are Wi-Fi 6 compatible. These routers are designed to take full advantage of the benefits offered by this Wi-Fi technology. For example, the boxes offered by Bouygues Telecom include advanced features such as MU-MIMO and high throughput capabilities, thus improving the user experience.
Offers tailored to your needs
Internet service providers offer specific offers to meet the needs of users who are hungry for performance. Fiber offers with Wi-Fi 6 are ideal for homes with many connected devices and high bandwidth consumption. These offers guarantee a more stable and faster connection, eliminating dead zones and minimizing interference.
Cutting-edge routers
Investing in a Wi-Fi 6 router is a smart move to maximize the benefits of your fiber connection. Modern routers are equipped with many advanced technologies, such as intelligent GHz and MHz frequency management, which allow efficient data transmission even in highly populated environments.
The future of networks with the new Wi-Fi standard
Wi-Fi 6 isn’t just a minor update; it’s a technological breakthrough that sets the stage for future evolutions in wireless networking.
An infrastructure ready for the Internet of Things (IoT)
With the rise of the Internet of Things, Wi-Fi 6’s ability to handle a large number of simultaneous connections is becoming crucial. Devices like security cameras, smart thermostats, and home automation devices will benefit greatly from this technology. The new standard’s ability to deliver a stable and fast connection even with hundreds of connected devices is a definite advantage.
Preparing for Wi-Fi 7
Already, discussions around Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) are emerging, and Wi-Fi 6 is laying the foundation for this future transition. Wi-Fi 7 promises even more throughput, better management of connected devices, and security improvements. By adopting Wi-Fi 6, you are preparing for a smooth transition to these future innovations.
Integration with optical fiber
Wi-Fi 6 is perfectly suited for fiber optic connections, providing uninterrupted high-speed data transmission. Fiber offerings combined with Wi-Fi 6 routers ensure an unprecedented user experience, with speeds of up to several gigabits per second.
In short, Wi-Fi 6 represents a technological revolution for internet connection. It pushes the limits of what we thought was possible with Wi-Fi networks. Thanks to significant improvements in terms of speed, management of connected devices, and security, Wi-Fi 6 is positioned as the essential standard for years to come.
Whether you’re a demanding consumer or a professional requiring an ultra-fast and reliable connection, Wi-Fi 6 will meet your expectations. Investing in this technology today means preparing your network for the challenges of tomorrow.
